RYAN HEIR

Hampshire hoping for take-off in 2024 after struggling to find feet

- DAVE CRAVEN

HAVING played just three games in 18 months, there is little wonder Wigan's Ryan Hampshire hopes to smash into 2024.

The utility player has more reasons than most for wanting to see in a new year.

Crocked with a season-ending ACL injury playing for Castleford in June 2022, he still managed to pick up a one-year deal with Wigan.

But Hampshire did not make his comeback until last May, featuring at stand-off in a Challenge Cup game against Leeds.

After that, with No.6 Bevan French in stellar form that would see him win Man of Steel and Aussie ace Jai Field thrilling at full-back, he only managed two more appearances.